Motorcycles

Choosing the one that’s right for you

By Joe Symmes

The ultimate in performance and control, you are one with the machine. With nothing but the wind and open road ahead, the feeling of limitless freedom abounds. The rush of acceleration and smooth lean of the turns reminds you that there is no other feeling on earth like riding a motorcycle.

For the slightly less romantic, there is no denying the relatively low purchase price, fuel efficiency, maneuverability and ease of parking a motorcycle. With modern riding gear, staying warm and dry is easy.

Sold on the idea of motorcycling? Your first step should be to take a beginner rider course to learn how to ride safely. In many areas, completing a course such as this will allow you to validate the riding portion of the DMV motorcycle license test and may even qualify you for an insurance discount.

The next step is to make sure you select the right bike. Choosing a motorcycle that fits you and your intended style of riding can make all the difference between a new lifelong passion and a several thousand dollar mistake. Cruisers, sport bikes, dual sports, touring bikes, the list goes on – today, there are more classes of motorcycles than ever before. Bikes have become more specialized as manufacturers scramble to fill every niche of the growing market for motorcycles.

One of the most important considerations, no matter what kind of motorcycle you're interested in, is to make sure it will fit you. Excessive power and weight should be avoided. Try to steer clear of bikes with so much horsepower that they make it difficult to learn on. Generally, a beginner should search for a motorcycle under 600 ccs. Cubic centimeters are a measure of engine displacement and a rough indication of how much power the engine produces.

The weight of the motorcycle can make a big difference as to how comfortable you feel with the bike - the lighter the better when it comes to learning to ride. Also, if you are "inseam challenged," pay careful attention to seat height to avoid ending up with a motorcycle that is so tall it's difficult to get your feet firmly planted on the ground.

With so many types of motorcycles to choose from, where do you begin? Starting with basic questions can make sorting through the myriad if choices can be much easier: What type of riding do you plan to do?

• If you like to cruise gently along rural, scenic drives, then a cruiser would best serve your needs.
• If you like going fast and value precise handling over comfort, then a sport bike is the way to go.
• If you would like to be able to ride on the street as well as off-road trails, then a dual sport bike, which is basically a street legal dirt bike, is the best choice for you.
• If multi-day trips to other states are your forte, then a full touring bike is what you need.

You’ll also want to keep in mind the compromises that each type of bike will demand. Cruisers are not necessarily the sharpest-handling motorcycles, sport bikes will not be as comfortable for longer rides, and dual sport bikes won't perform as well in the dirt as a dedicated dirt bike or as well on the street as some other street-only bikes. Touring bikes can be a hassle for maneuvering around in tight areas.

A wealth of information can be found on the Web. Many of the more popular motorcycle models by Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Suzuki, and Harley-Davidson have dedicated websites maintained by enthusiast groups. Of course each manufacturer also maintains a factory website with the latest info on its new models, as well as price, weight and other specifications.

When budgeting for a motorcycle, be sure to set aside funds for safety gear. At a minimum you should consider purchasing a helmet, gloves, riding jacket and sturdy footwear for your bike.

Choosing the right motorcycle can be fun and rewarding. Remember to make an honest assessment of your riding expectations, avoid getting a bike that is too powerful and make sure there’s a good fit between you and your new motorcycle. You will soon be cruising the open road, enjoying your new found freedom!

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